Namisindwa, Uganda: A renowned herbalist in Namisindwa District is nursing injuries after allegedly being brutally assaulted by armed Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) staff near Bunasambi station, in what local leaders say is part of a growing pattern of harassment against residents living near the national park.
Namukowa Stephen, a resident of Sibanga Village, said the attack occurred on Tuesday evening as he descended from the park where he had gone to collect mushrooms and medicinal herbs — his primary source of livelihood.
“I was stopped by armed men in UWA uniforms. They disarmed me, then beat me without any provocation,” Namukowa told DailyExpress, adding that this was not the first time he had suffered mistreatment from UWA personnel.
Bwayo Bosco, the NRM chairman for Tsekululu, confirmed the incident, saying residents now live in fear of approaching the forest. “People are scared to go near the park, fearing they could lose their lives. We need immediate intervention from senior leaders,” Bosco said.
Bwayo Emma, the NRM LCV flagbearer, condemned what he described as “increasing harassment and impunity” by UWA staff. He noted that several court orders prohibit such actions, with the main suit scheduled for hearing on August 24 at the Mbale High Court.
“UWA is defying court orders by beating people, destroying crops, and intimidating residents. We will hold individual staff personally accountable,” Bwayo vowed.
Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Bosco Nabboge confirmed that investigations are underway and that UWA management has been notified.
The incident adds to ongoing tensions between UWA and surrounding communities, with residents accusing the authority of using excessive force and disregarding legal directives meant to safeguard their livelihoods.
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